The holidays have left us and the New Year is upon us. So what does that mean? Traditionally, we want to start the year out eating better so let’s take a look at how we can do that.
Lots of people start the year with fad diets such as low carb, no carb, high protein and all the others. But sometimes it’s just best to watch your portion size and the foods you eat. Healthy eating can be difficult at times. Finding time to shop is one of the biggest challenges. We ask ourselves: What should I buy? Where should I buy it? The best way to avoid this problem is to stock your pantry with superfoods.
What are superfoods you ask? Superfoods are foods which are mostly plant-based but also some fish and dairy which are thought to be nutritionally dense and thus good for our health. Superfoods don’t have their own food group and there is no set criteria to determine what is and what is not a superfood. Superfoods have extra large doses of vitamins and minerals that can help us ward off diseases and live a healthier life. Some of the nutrients that certain superfoods contain include antioxidants, thought to ward off cancer; healthy fats, thought to prevent heart disease; fiber, thought to prevent diabetes and digestive problems; or phytochemicals, the chemicals in plants responsible for deep colors and smells which can have numerous health benefits.
Examples of some superfoods that are easily accessible are blueberries, kiwifruit, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds, kale, and most dark colored leafy greens and cabbages. Salmon, Acai berries, and pomegranates also are great to cook with too. There are many ways to find more, look around on the internet for some great recipes or simply ask your local chef. These foods are a better way of eating as opposed to trying to battle with fad diets.